Fishing Charters in Alabama
Browse fishing charters in Alabama that can help you catch catfish.
Best Time to Catch Catfish
Catfish can be caught year-round in Scottsboro. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Catfish
Scottsboro, Alabama, offers excellent opportunities for chasing catfish, especially on the Tennessee River and Guntersville Lake. The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are generally the most productive. Blues, channels, and flatheads all thrive here. Focus your efforts on areas with current, such as river channels, creek mouths, and below dams. Cut bait, live bait, and stink baits are all effective, depending on the species and conditions. For big blues, try drifting cut shad along the river channel. A local's secret: Guntersville State Park offers good bank fishing access, and several public boat ramps provide easy access to the main lake. Be prepared for some strong currents and varying water levels, especially after heavy rains. The catfish population here is healthy, with the potential for some truly trophy-sized fish.
How to Catch Catfish
Catfish Fishing Regulations in Alabama
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Alabama Fishing License
No limit on channel and blue catfish less than 34 inches in length. Only one blue catfish greater than 34 inches in length may be harvested per day.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Alabama state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Alabama
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any limits on catfish I can keep in Scottsboro, Alabama?
There are no size or bag limits for catfish in Alabama. You can catch and keep as many as you want.
What's the best bait for catching catfish around Scottsboro?
Popular catfish baits include stink baits, nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best in your chosen fishing spot.
Do I need a fishing license to catch catfish in Alabama?
Yes, you need a valid Alabama fishing license to fish for catfish in the state's public waters.
Can I fish for catfish year-round near Scottsboro?
Yes, the catfish season is open year-round in Alabama, so you can target them whenever you like.
More Catfish Fishing in Alabama
Other Species to Fish in Scottsboro
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